Daniel Sturridge could save Newcastle United

Newcastle are yet to make a signing in the January transfer window with less than two weeks until deadline day.

Rafael Benitez must be desperate to strengthen his squad in early January after little investment from owner Mike Ashley in the summer. The Spaniard stated it would be a miracle if he saved the club from relegation to the Championship and their lack of signings will no doubt be concerning for supporters. Defeat to Chelsea last week meant the Magpies slipped into the bottom three of the Premier League.

Reports in the Chronicle suggest that Benitez has no idea how much money is available this month with takeover rumours still persisting. In order to keep the Spaniard at the club, Newcastle simply must back him financially. Adding to his forward line could be vital to avoiding the drop.

One man he could target is Liverpool outcast – Daniel Sturridge. Valued at £13.5m by Transfermarkt, the 29-year-old has been largely underused during Jurgen Klopp’s spell as manager with injuries hampering his progress. Sturridge was unsuccessfully loaned to West Brom last season but impressed enough in pre-season to earn a place on the Liverpool bench for the majority of the campaign.

Despite scoring some important goals this season, reports from the Liverpool Echo suggest Sturridge is expected to leave the club with his contract expiring in the summer. While he may not be the player he once was, Sturridge remains one of the top forwards in the division. With expert finishing ability and expert movement, his influence in the final third could help Newcastle win vital points to steer them away from danger.

Liverpool are surely unlikely to command a large fee for the former England international though wages could be a stumbling block. However, regular first-team football at St. James Park would be difficult to reject.